Ash has been used since the time of the Native Americans and the early settlers of the Americas. The Native Americans supposedly showed the medicinal properties of nearly every portion of the tree to the settlers. Traditionally, ash has been used to treat external cancerous growths, itching, parasitic worms, and fever. It has also been used as an antiseptic, diuretic, aphrodisiac, and appetite stimulant.

Today, ash is still used for many conditions, including gouty arthritis, inflammation and pain. It may also be used as a general antimicrobial. It is commonly used in Europe in a variety of combination products. However, little human evidence exists, and only a few scientific studies have been carried out to support any of these claims.

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

GRADE *

Ash has been historically noted for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, but there is little scientific evidence currently available to support these uses.

C

* Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this useB: Good scientific evidence for this useC: Unclear scientific evidence for this useD: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)

Tradition / Theory
The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited research. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. There may be other proposed uses that are not listed below.

Safety
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Allergies

Avoid in individuals with a known allergy to ash (Fraxinus species), its constituents, or to members of the Oleaceae family.

Exposure to ash wood dust in a work environment may cause effects in individuals with sensitive airways.

Pollens from Fraxinus spp. may be some of the most commonly inhaled aeroallergens, which change with the season and are usually found during rainy or wet seasons.

Ash may reduce blood uric acid concentrations and is not recommended for patients taking allopurinol or other drugs that lower uric acid levels.

Ash may increase the effect of pain relievers.

Ash may interfere with how antibiotics work in the body and are not recommended for patients undergoing antibiotic therapy.

Ash may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with drugs that increase the risk of bleeding. Some examples include aspirin, anticoagulants ("blood thinners") such as warfarin (Coumadin®) or heparin, anti-platelet drugs such as clopidogrel (Plavix®), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) or naproxen (Naprosyn®, Aleve®).

Ash may increase the effect of anti-inflammatory drugs.

Ash bark, leaves, and flowers may have antioxidant activities and interfere with drugs that may be affected by the activities of antioxidants.

Ash bark, leaves, and flowers (Fraxinus ornus) may possess antiviral activity and may increase the effect of antiviral drugs when taken together.

Ash is not recommended to be used in combination with drugs that alter the immune system.

Interactions with Herbs & Dietary Supplements

Ash may increase the effect of pain relievers.

Ash may interfere with how antibacterials work in the body and are not recommended for patients undergoing antibacterial therapy.

Ash may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with herbs and supplements that are believed to increase the risk of bleeding.

Ash may increase the effect of anti-inflammatory agents.

Ash bark, leaves, and flowers may possess antioxidant activities and interfere with drugs that may be affected by the activities of antioxidants.

Ash bark, leaves, and flowers (Fraxinus ornus) may possess antiviral activity and may increase the effect of anti-viral drugs when taken together.

Ash bark, leaves, and flowers (Fraxinus ornus) may possess immunomodulatory activities and may increase the effect of herbs on the immune system when taken together.

The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.